The New 'Package Visa' Explained
Saudi Arabia has introduced an innovative 'Package Visa' service, specifically designed to streamline travel for tourists from select countries, including India. Launched in mid-2026, this pilot program allows travellers to obtain an electronic tourist visa
as part of an integrated travel booking. Instead of a separate, and sometimes complex, visa application, the e-visa is bundled with your flights and accommodation when you book through an approved travel provider. This approach is designed to be a fully digital, faster, and simpler experience, with some providers noting that the e-visa can be issued and emailed within 24 hours of completing the booking.
How to Apply: A Step-by-Step Guide
The process for the Package Visa is designed for convenience and avoids the need for embassy visits. First, you must choose a travel package from an authorised and approved travel agency or platform. These platforms allow you to select a pre-designed holiday or customise your own itinerary. During the booking process, you will be prompted to upload necessary documents, which typically include a scan of your passport's bio page and a recent personal photograph. After completing the booking and making the payment online, your information undergoes an automated verification. Once approved, the electronic tourist visa is issued along with your mandatory travel insurance and sent directly to your email.
Eligibility, Conditions, and Costs
While the process is simplified, there are specific conditions. The Package Visa is tied to a booking that includes a confirmed return flight and accommodation at a hotel rated at least four stars. The dates for your flights and hotel must match, and the trip duration must be between 2 and 88 days. Some providers may also require the package to meet a minimum value. The visa itself is part of the package cost, which also includes mandatory medical insurance and processing fees. This unified service covers all your essential travel needs in one transaction, reducing paperwork and saving time.
Other Fast Visa Options for Indians
Beyond the new Package Visa, Indian travellers have other streamlined options. If you hold a valid and previously used tourist or business visa from the US, UK, or the Schengen Area, you may be eligible for a one-year, multiple-entry e-visa or a visa on arrival. To get a visa on arrival with this eligibility, you must be flying on a Saudi national carrier like Saudia or Flynas. Another popular choice is the 96-hour Stopover Visa, which is issued for free (plus nominal processing and insurance fees) when you book a flight with a layover in Saudi Arabia on Saudia or Flynas. This visa is ideal for a short exploration or to perform Umrah.
What You Can Do with the Tourist Visa
The Saudi tourist e-visa, whether obtained through the new package or other routes, offers considerable flexibility. It is typically a multiple-entry visa valid for one year, allowing a total stay of up to 90 days. It can be used for a wide range of activities, including tourism, leisure, attending events and festivals, and visiting family or relatives. Importantly for many Indian travellers, the tourist e-visa also permits the holder to perform Umrah, the Islamic pilgrimage to Mecca. However, it is not valid for the annual Hajj pilgrimage, which requires a separate, dedicated visa.
Tips for a Smooth Journey
Once your visa is secured, a little preparation goes a long way. Always ensure your passport is valid for at least six months from your planned date of entry into Saudi Arabia. Keep both a digital and a printed copy of your e-visa, flight tickets, and hotel confirmations. While Saudi Arabia is modernising rapidly, it's wise to pack modest and comfortable clothing respectful of local customs. Having a mix of cash and cards is also recommended, as smaller establishments may not accept card payments. Finally, double-check that all your bookings are confirmed before you depart to ensure a seamless arrival.
